The CI-H subjects provide you with a foundation in effective expository writing and oral communication. CI-H subjects are writing classes or classes in the HASS curriculum in which you plan, organize, draft, and revise a series of sequenced assignments based on course material. These subjects require at least 20 pages of writing, typically divided among three to five assignments. At least one essay must be revised and resubmitted. CI-H subjects also offer students substantial opportunity for oral expression through presentations, student-led discussion, or class participation.

CI-HW subjects are a subset of CI-H subjects concentrating more particularly on the writing process. Given how important revision is to composition, most, if not all, assignments will be revised. The emphasis in all the CI-HW sections is on writing: the writing process, from pre-writing through drafting, revising, and editing; and the rhetorical dimensions of writing: the audience for whom one is writing, and the purpose for which one is writing—to argue, inform, persuade, explain, convince, and so on. Students address major trouble spots in grammar, mechanics, and style; effective paragraph construction; and proper use and citation of research materials and sources. In-class workshops offer peer feedback on writers’ work in progress, allowing students to develop a critical vocabulary and giving writers suggestions for revision. Students also meet for required conferences with the instructor.

You must pass a CI-H or CI-HW subject in order to receive credit. You may receive CI credit for only one CI-H/HW subject per term.

Please Note: There is a new deadline and process for enrolling in CI-H and CI-HW subjects:

Continuing students must select CI-H/HW subjects during pre-registration by the CI-H/HW deadline (June 16 for Fall term).

New Freshmen, Transfer Students, and Students Returning from Leaves must select CI-H/HW subjects when they register, before schedules are run (deadline of August 28 for Fall term).

Choosing an appropriate CI-H

Most students fulfill the CI-H component in their freshman and sophomore years. The Communication Requirement specifies that undergraduates complete one CI subject by the end of the first year, two by the end of the second year, three by the end of the third year, and four by graduation.

If you have questions about what CI-H and CI-HW classes are appropriate for you, please contact the Office of the Communication Requirement at: commreq@mit.edu or (617) 253-2313.

CI-HW Subjects for Academic Year 2014-15

Credit may be received for only one CI-HW subject within the following groups: